The grant will augment the foundation's medical school scholarship endowment and increase the number of four-year scholarships awarded to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, according to a press release from the medical branch.

According to the release, 167 students have benefited from the scholarship endowment since its establishment in 1993.

"This generous gesture illustrates the foundation's dedication toward ensuring that all students have the opportunity to attend medical school," said Dr. Stanley M. Lemon, dean of UTMB's School of Medicine, in the release.